INS Aridhaman
Context:
The Indian Navy has confirmed that INS Aridhaman which is the country's third indigenously-built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) is in the final stages of harbour and sea trials.
It is expected to be commissioned very soon marking a major milestone in India's nuclear deterrent capability.
About INS Aridhaman (S4):
It is the third Arihant-class SSBN, following INS Arihant (commissioned in 2016) and INS Arighaat (commissioned in August 2024).
It was built at the Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam
It has been under construction for nearly a decade.
Unlike its predecessors, Aridhaman is designed to carry the longer-range K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), significantly extending India's strike reach.
Significance:
Its induction will strengthen India's sea-based nuclear triad, ensuring a credible second-strike capability.
With three operational SSBNs, India moves closer to maintaining sustained, near-continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent patrols (a capability currently held by major powers like China)
Future Plans (SSN Programme):
Apart from SSBNs, the Navy is pursuing a program to build two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) indigenously to further bolster its underwater combat capabilities.